2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting snugly between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a familial resemblance with its lineup mates, making it difficult to distinguish without checking the badge. Its design was characterized by an athletic stance and a generous 7.9 inches of ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB boasted a modern and striking interior, with round shapes repeated across the dash and polished metal details on the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The single panel housing the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen added to the cabin's elegance, while the fit and finish were of the high standard expected from Mercedes-Benz.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended length to accommodate a third row, presented an elegant and recognizable Jeep design. The seven-slot grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and modernized lighting contributed to its distinctive look. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, with dual high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and quilted Nappa leather, offering a premium feel. The spacious cabin provided ample room for passengers, even in the third row, and the optional air suspension allowed for a comfortable ride with adjustable firmness. The Grand Cherokee L's design and features made it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder producing 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with the option to upgrade to 4MATIC all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000. The GLB's fuel economy was rated at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the FWD version, and 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for the AWD version. Weighing between 3,638 and 3,891 pounds, the GLB offered a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The 4MATIC version provided better handling and agility, especially in adverse weather conditions, and came with the Off-Road Engineering Package for enhanced off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine choices: a 3.6-liter V6 with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with options for rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The V6 engine, while adequate, struggled with the vehicle's weight, leading to a noisy and coarse driving experience. The V8, available on higher trims, provided a more satisfying performance. The Grand Cherokee L's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for the V6, and 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for the V8. The chassis offered excellent ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride height settings for various driving conditions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between a two-row and a three-row configuration. The two-row version provided 27.0 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded. The three-row version offered 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 24.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and 56.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The third row was best suited for children or short trips for smaller adults. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row was spacious for two adults, with adjustable seatbacks and sliding sections for added comfort.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and audio controls. The Laredo and Altitude trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch display. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space for passengers in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a 60/40 split bench seat available as an option. The cabin was equipped with multiple USB ports and a panoramic roof, enhancing the overall travel experience. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be kept on high, which could be noisy.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package offered larger 10.25-inch displays, a Burmester Surround Sound System, and keyless go. The optional Multimedia Package included augmented reality navigation and traffic-sign assist. Additional options included adaptive damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features, including massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The navigation system could take over the instrument panel, providing detailed route information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. New for 2022, an optional 10.3-inch touchscreen was available for the front passenger, along with dual 10.1-inch touchscreens for rear-seat passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a suite of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Optional safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and blind-spot assist. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features such as active distance assist, active steering assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L also had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The Grand Cherokee L was equipped with various driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking.